The Verona Public Library Board of Trustees announces the hiring of Claudine Pascale as the new Library Director. Pascale replaces the former director, Cheryl Ashley, who retired on July 31.
Ashley served as director for almost six years. Under Ashley’s leadership, in 2018, the Verona Public Library underwent a $3 million renovation to the institution. This renovation included a 4,500-square-foot expansion out the back of the building. The original structure was updated to meet the needs of 21st century technology. The Board of Trustees wishes Ashley well on her retirement as they welcome Pascale.
Pascale starts on September 3. “I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to work with my community,” said Pascale. “For the past eight years, my family and I have called Verona home and I’m looking forward to playing a more active role in the town. This is an exciting time for the library with its recent beautiful renovation. My goal is to continue to offer personalized service and ensure that the library is a vibrant resource for the community.”
Pascale sees as a crucial part of her role as director to ensure that the Library is seen as an invaluable asset to the town and meets the varied needs of all its residents.
For over the past four years, Pascale was the director of the Caldwell Free Public Library. During her tenure heading up the Caldwell Library, she was responsible for collaborative efforts with community organizations, developed a three year strategic plan, increased access to digital materials, organized various programs to highlight the community’s history during a year-long centennial celebration, and chaired the Caldwell Public Library Foundation’s Centennial Gala committee, which raised nearly $30,000.
Pascale coordinated recovery efforts after the entire lower level of the library was severely damaged by flood waters. She developed and promoted the “Reimagine and Rebuild” campaign after the flood, reaching its $25,000 fundraising goal and organized a grand re-opening event for the children’s room after recovery work to the lower level of the library was completed.
Pascale is actively involved in the PALS Plus Consortium to which the Verona Public Library belongs. She also established a community garden behind the library.
Prior to directing the Caldwell Library, Pascale was the director of the Fairview Library. She also has previous experience working for Cliffside Park Public Library and the Rutherford Public Library.
“Ms. Pascale brings a wealth of experience to our library having previously served as Director at both the Fairview and Caldwell libraries,” says Dr. Elizabeth Giblin, Verona Public Library Board of Trustees President. “The Library Board and I look forward to seeing Ms. Pascale continue the great work that is happening at our newly renovated library.”
Pascale will lead the strategic planning process as the Library plans for the next few years in its newly renovated and expanded space.
In her spare time, Pascale enjoys traveling, reading, and watching live music. She resides in Verona with her husband and two children.
